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Manchester City 0 Chelsea 1: Kai Havertz’s first-half goal was enough to see the Blues crowned European champions for the second time in their history and deny Pep Guardiola’s men
Kai Havertz finally proved he was worth every penny as the £71m signings made the difference for Chelsea in the Champions League final.
The German playmaker has slowly adapted to life in English football after a full season in the Premier League.
And on the biggest stage of all, he delivered the sucker punch to end Manchester City’s dream of being crowned European champions.
Pep Guardiola’s defence was split in half by an expert through ball from Mason Mount in Porto.
Havertz latched onto the pass to bundle his way around the on-rushing Ederson, and he then had the simple task of slotting the ball into an empty net.
The 6,000 travelling Chelsea fans will never forget their night in Portugal – and the only disappointment for Thomas Tuchel’s side is that there weren’t more supporters in the stadium to celebrate with them.
Premier League champions City were favourites ahead of the final but suffered a desperately disappointing night in Porto in what was their first Champions League final.
Pep Guardiola’s side was never allowed to play their normal fluent game and could not respond as a disciplined Chelsea sealed a second Champions League triumph.
Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel won the tactical battle against his City counterpart Guardiola and his side could have won by more had Timo Werner converted two gilt-edged chances.
City laboured after the break searching for openings and their cause was not helped when playmaker Kevin de Bruyne went off injured after a clash of heads.
Chelsea survived seven minutes of stoppage time with Riyad Mahrez going agonisingly close for City before the celebrations from Chelsea’s travelling fans could begin.
Havertz told BT Sport: “I don’t know what to say. I really don’t know what to say. I waited a long time.
Now I want to thank my family, my parents, my grandmother and my girlfriend. I don’t know what to say.
“I’ve waited 15 years for this moment and now it’s here.”
Captain Cesar Azpilicueta jumped in to interrupt the post-match interview and added: “[Kai Havertz] was so calm. Not only that. He runs like crazy! That’s why he deserves this.
“I came here in 2012 after that Champions League win. I wanted to repeat that Champions League success. It is amazing. My family are here. It is a special, special day.”
